I've been using a wood stove to heat our home for 7 years and wanted to share an observation about our metal chimney. I have one that was professionally installed. It runs from my stove unit, up through the ceiling, through the attic, and about 5-1/2 feet about the roof line. Just as the heating season was starting, I happened to be in the attic during a windstorm. I noticed the double-walled chimney shaking and vibrating from the wind. Upon further inspection, I noticed that the small metal screws that hold the chimney segments together had backed out but yet were still in their holes. Everything was flimsy. I then thought how horrible it would be if the chimney buckled or came apart in the attic. Needless to say, I tightened the screws.
Perhaps this is a well-known maintenance issue but I have never heard or read anything about checking the chimney screws. It might be just a simple measure for people to check those screws and tighten them if necessary. With the vibration from wind, they may loosen on their own over time. There are no lock washers or anything else to keep them tight. Has anyone else ever noticed this?
Perhaps this is a well-known maintenance issue but I have never heard or read anything about checking the chimney screws. It might be just a simple measure for people to check those screws and tighten them if necessary. With the vibration from wind, they may loosen on their own over time. There are no lock washers or anything else to keep them tight. Has anyone else ever noticed this?